Nanocellulose as an Avenue for Drug Delivery Applications: A Mini-Review

A controlled and sustained release of an accurate dose of medications into a system can cure diseases associated with the human body. Different potential drug delivery vehicles, which are biocompatible and non-toxic, have been synthesized and developed for the controlled release of drugs targeting specific organs or areas. A delivery agent procured from sustainable sources with less or no side effects is more advantageous in terms of compatibility and toxicity. Among a few bioresources, one such material obtained is the nanocellulose-based drug delivery vehicle. They are ideal for the transport and release of drugs since they are biocompatible and possess good mechanical properties. A major characteristic feature of nanocellulose is that different surface modifications are possible due to the presence of a large number of hydroxyl groups, which can strengthen the interactions required with the therapeutic drug for delivery. Pharmaceutical drugs can strongly bind to the nanocellulose material through electrostatic interactions, and the release can occur in a sustained manner to the target within a few minutes to several days. In this mini-review, we have tried to summarize some of the most important works carried out in the field of nanocellulose-based drug delivery, different types of nanocellulose, its surface modification possibilities, and delivery of medications through three main routes, oral, transdermal, and topical, that have been reported to be effective

Edible Carrageenan Films Reinforced with Starch and Nanocellulose: Development and Characterization

Currently, from the sustainable development point of view, edible films are used as potential substitutes for plastics in food packaging, but their properties still have limitations and require further improvement. In this work, novel edible carrageenan films reinforced with starch granules and nanocellulose were developed and investigated for application as a bio-based food packaging system. The nanocellulose was used to improve film mechanical properties. Aloe vera gel was incorporated for antibacterial properties. Glycerol and sesame oil were added as plasticizers into the nanocomposite film to improve flexibility and moisture resistance. The interactions between charged polysaccharide functional groups were confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. The migration of starch particles on the upper film surface resulting in increased surface roughness was demonstrated by scanning electron and atomic force microscopy methods. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that all films were stable up to 200 °C. The increase in nanocellulose content in films offered improved mechanical properties and surface hydrophilicity (confirmed by measurements of contact angle and mechanical properties). The film with a carrageenan/starch ratio of 1.5:1, 2.5 mL of nanocellulose and 0.5 mL of glycerol was chosen as the optimal. It demonstrated water vapor permeability of 6.4 × 10−10 g/(s m Pa), oil permeability of 2%, water solubility of 42%, and moisture absorption of 29%. This film is promising as a biodegradable edible food packaging material for fruits and vegetables to avoid plastic